VIDEO GAME PRE-PRODUCTION GAME DESIGN MRS. CLOUD

OBJECTIVE The student will be able to recognize the importance of the pre-production process in the game design.

WHAT ARE THE PHASES OF PRE-PRODUCTION Creating the storyline Piece together a storyboard Creating Design Document Considering technical limitations Creating a prototype game Market Research

CREATING THE STORYLINE This a much overlooked process. The storyline defines the main characters, plot, setting and overall theme.

STORYBOARD The visual representation of the storyline which includes sketches, concept art, and an explanation of what will be happening in each scene. Large attention is given to the CG rendered cut-scenes that is used to further the story line in the game.

TECHNICAL LIMITATIONS What equipment is the game being designed for? What are the standards that the hardware manufacture require to be followed?

GAME PROTOTYPE Rough draft of the game. Simple graphics, little or no audio. This is where you demonstrate what the “big claim” of this game is and that it can be done. Prove that your theory can work. This is also known as the “Proof of Concept” This can also take the concept of a paper prototype. Please watch the two videos under Proof of Concept and Paper Prototypes

MARKET RESEARCH What do your players want? What are the most efficient ways to find out what they want? What marketing media will effectively get to the audience you want and create that huge “must have” buzz? Please watch the videos below under Marketing Research and Marketing The video for Marketing Research is 40 minutes long and the bulk of your lesson today.

PITCH Once you have an idea of the game you want to make, you have researched your market, created a game design document, have either a paper or playable prototype, now is the time to get the funding. Below is a game pitch for Bio-Shock. Game pitches like this are used as part of a presentation for funding. This is the make it or break it step. If you can get that first initial interest that someone will agree to fund you, the “hardest” part pre- production is over. ng